People who misuse Blue Badges 'should be worried'

Salford City Council says it is determined to reduce Blue Badge misuse

People who misuse Blue Badges "should be worried - we are coming for you", a councillor has warned.

Salford City Council said it would be checking that Blue Badges displayed in windscreens were registered properly and being used correctly.

The local authority said it would use high-visibility patrols and plain-clothed officers as well as other enforcement agencies and information supplied by the public.

"Those who misuse Blue Badges should be worried," said Councillor Barbara Bentham, who added: "We are coming for you."

'Absolute lifeline'

Salford Council also said it would name people convicted of misusing the Blue Badge scheme, which is designed to help people with a range of disabilities.

Ms Bentham said inspectors were fully trained and aware of the fact that "many people who use the badges have hidden disabilities".

She said: "Those who have nothing to hide do not need to worry at all as we are not here to target them."

Fake or cloned badges can trade on the black market for up to £1,000.

The Salford Disability Forum welcomed the council's action.

A spokesperson said: "It will make a huge difference to the people who really need the scheme as it is an absolute lifeline.

"If those spaces are being taken by people who should not be there, it affects us all."